Brinzolamide 1% Eye Drops (Azopt)

How it works

Brinzolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase isoenzyme II in the ciliary processes, suppressing aqueous humour secretion and reducing intraocular pressure.

Prescribing in practice

• Contraindicated in sulfonamide hypersensitivity, as it is a sulfonamide and can rarely trigger systemic sulfonamide-type reactions.
• Not recommended in severe renal impairment due to accumulation of the drug and its metabolite.
• The suspension causes transient blurred vision; concurrent use with oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors is not advised.

Monitoring

Monitor intraocular pressure and observe for ocular irritation, taste disturbance and any signs of systemic hypersensitivity.

Counselling the patient

• Shake well before instilling and expect brief blurring afterwards.
• Remove soft contact lenses before use and wait before reinserting them.
• Press gently on the inner corner of the eye after instillation to reduce systemic absorption.

Evidence & guidelines

Per the SPC, brinzolamide is used either as monotherapy or as adjunct to beta-blockers or prostaglandin analogues for raised intraocular pressure.